monkey wrench

• Herramienta con una mordaza ajustable para sujetar y girar tuercas, pernos o tuberías; también se usa en sentido figurado en la expresión «meter la llave inglesa» o «echar por tierra los planes», que implica obstaculizar o sabotear algo.

A tool with an adjustable jaw used for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or pipes; also used figuratively in the phrase 'throw a monkey wrench' meaning to cause disruption or sabotage a plan.

1. ToolB1formal

   A type of adjustable wrench used for turning nuts and bolts.

   Llave inglesa

   • He used a monkey wrench to tighten the pipe.
   • The mechanic grabbed a monkey wrench from his toolbox.
   • A monkey wrench is essential for plumbing repairs.

2. Disruption or obstacleB2informalamerican

   Something that causes a problem or spoils a plan.

   obstáculo o contratiempo

   • The sudden rain threw a monkey wrench into our picnic plans.
   • His resignation put a monkey wrench in the project timeline.
   • The unexpected delay was a real monkey wrench in our schedule.